India's First Zero-Waste Airport | 23 Dec 2024

Why in News? 

Recently, the Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore became India's first zero-waste airport with the inauguration of a 3000 sq ft material recovery facility. 

• Waste Management System: 
  • The new Material Recovery Facility features a comprehensive waste management system to segregate and recycle waste from both the airport and aircraft. 
  • Wet waste will be converted into fertilizer, aligning with the airport's zero-waste initiative based on the 4R principle: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Restore. 
• Expansion Plans: 
  • Also, the Union Minister of Civil Aviation announced the capacity of Indore Airport will be increased from 40 lakh passengers to 90 lakh passengers annually in the next 3 years. 
  • Discussions are ongoing with airlines to enhance connectivity to international destinations, including Thailand and the US. 
• Infrastructure Development: 
  • The new air traffic control tower at the airport, built at a cost of Rs 55 crore, was also inaugurated by the Union Minister of Civil Aviation.